As you climb, the air contains less available oxygen. The body needs time to adapt, and that process cannot be replaced by strong fitness or determination.
What helps
Longer routes, slow walking, steady hydration, adequate food and honest symptom reporting all support acclimatization. Some itineraries include a climb-high, sleep-low pattern where the route allows it.
What does not help
Rushing, hiding symptoms or treating the itinerary as a race can make the climb harder. Your guide sets a deliberately slow pace for a reason.
